“The Mauler”

After UFC 192, Alexander Gustafsson still does not have UFC gold wrapped around his waist. Putting on an amazing show against the current light heavyweight champ Daniel Cormier, “The Mauler” has plenty of time to heal as he prepares for a potential full 6-month recovery process. Even though this is his second loss in a championship bout, Gustafsson has been in arguably two of the most exciting championship fights of all-time. One going against Jon jones in 2013, and the other, against Cormier on OCT 3rd. “DC” has a new-found respect for the contender and it’s with good reason.

He has brought Jones and Cormier to the brink, and pushed both champions like they have never been pushed before. But now, with his healing process beginning, who should “The Mauler” fight next? I would like to see Ovince Saint Preux, or a rematch between Anthony Johnson to give Gustafsson a chance to redeem his only non-title fight loss.

The lightweight division might see a drastic change if Ryan Bader gets to Cormier first before Jones makes his appearance back in the octagon. We will see what the future brings for the Mauler and the light heavyweight division, but there is no denying Gustafsson’s skill and toughness.